Buying a home is exciting, but when it comes to designing and/or styling, even the most well-intentioned homeowners make mistakes that can be costly (or just frustrating) to fix later.
If you want a home that feels polished and put together, avoid these five common pitfalls - and what to do instead.
Mistake 1: Using Large-Format Tiles in Every Bathroom
The Mistake: Big tiles can make a space feel sleek and modern, but in small bathrooms, they leave much to be desired! This photo on the left belongs to a current client of mine. We're updating her builder-grade powder bath, and one of the first things we selected was (you guessed it) the floor tiles!
How to Avoid It: Consider a medium or smaller-scale tile to create a more balanced look. Something like a 2x2, 4x4, or mosaic tile can add dimension and prevent your bathroom from feeling like a commercial space.
Mistake 2: "High Water" Curtains
The Mistake: Choosing curtain panels that are too short is extremely common, and I understand why! Window treatments can get pretty pricey, and because you kiiiind of need them for privacy and refuge from the Texas heat, you grab an affordable 2-pack of 86" panels at HomeGoods and call it a day.
How to Avoid It: I don’t believe in strict design rules, but one thing I know for sure - high-water curtains will never be in style. To avoid this common mistake, measure from at least 6 inches above your window down to the floor for the perfect curtain length. If you have tall ceilings, you can go even higher to elongate the space. If your ceilings are lower, you might only have a couple of inches above the window, and that’s okay! The key is making sure 1) your window is fully covered and 2) your curtain panels just kiss the floor - no awkward floating.
Mistake 3: Buying Matching Furniture (or Everything from the Same Store)
The Mistake: A perfectly matched furniture set might seem like an easy way to make a room feel cohesive, but it often ends up looking flat and uninspired!
How to Avoid It: Mix materials, finishes, and styles to create a layered, lived-in look. Try pairing a vintage wood dresser with a modern upholstered bed or mixing metal and wood finishes for a more dynamic space.
Mistake 4: Hanging Art Too High (or Too Small for the Wall)
The Mistake: Art that’s too small or hung too high can make a space feel disconnected.
How to Avoid It: A good rule of thumb is to center art at eye level (about 57-60 inches from the floor) and ensure it takes up at least two-thirds of the width of the furniture below it.
Mistake 5: Ignoring the Power of Layered Lighting
The Mistake: Ever been to someone’s house for dinner and felt like you were sitting under a surgical spotlight? There’s nothing quite as humbling as a full face of makeup under stadium-bright lightin - am I right? Beyond that, relying solely on overhead lighting makes a room feel flat and sterile.
How to Avoid It: Think in layers—incorporate sconces, table lamps, and floor lamps to add warmth and depth. This not only creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere but also helps you and your guests feel more relaxed. After all, no one wants to feel like they’re on display when the sun goes down or company comes over.
Designing a home is a process, and it’s okay to take your time. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll create a space that not only looks great but also feels effortlessly pulled together.
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